Brandts vows to cut spending

OVER the years, APR have been big spenders in the transfer window but that is set to change under Ernie Brandts. The Dutchman, who joined the army side at the end of last season (2009/2010), has revealed that he will instead promote some of the club’s youth players.“We (APR) have a very good youthful team and it’s only proper to give some of these lads a shot at the top level.

Friday, April 15, 2011
APR coach Ernie Brandts insists that his team still have a good shot at reaching the next round of the Orange Champions League. (Photo: T. Kisambira)

OVER the years, APR have been big spenders in the transfer window but that is set to change
under Ernie Brandts. The Dutchman, who joined the army side at the end of last season (2009/2010), has revealed that he will instead promote some of the club’s youth players.

"We (APR) have a very good youthful team and it’s only proper to give some of these lads a shot
at the top level. Some of them are very good players who merit being in the first team so fans
will see a couple of young players next season,” Brandts said.

Brandts also said that he would give some of his big stars an opportunity to seek professional
football.

"While we draft in players from our academy, we also intend to give some of our star players an
opportunity to play in some of Europe’s more advanced leagues,” he continued.

"With young players in the side, we shall have a good blend of youth and experience which is
crucial for any big club.”

While Brandts had little success on the continental scene (Orange Champions League), the
Dutchman has quickly won over the fans after guiding the club to a 13-game winning streak.

APR finished the Primus National Football League (PNFL) first round without dropping a point.
Brandts, who scored five goals in 28 caps for the Netherlands during his playing days, has now
challenged the team to finish the season unbeaten.

The 55-year-old also featured for PSV Eindhoven, Roda JC Kerkrade, MVV Maastricht and De
Graafschap.

Some of the high profile teams he has coached include PSV Eindhoven (1993-2002), RKSV Nuenen
(2002-2004), FC Volendam (2005-2006), NAC Breda (2006-2008) and Rah Ahan (2009).

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